Russian Trawlers Suspected of Mapping Undersea Cables Between US and Europe

Suspicious Activity Detected

Analysis of satellite data from Global Fishing Watch revealed over 500 instances of Russian fishing trawlers loitering above critical undersea communication cables connecting the U.S. and Europe. This activity occurred over a period of four and a half years, raising concerns about intelligence gathering.

Mapping Critical Infrastructure

The general locations of undersea cables are publicly marked on nautical charts, but detailed operations require more precise positioning data. Several Russian trawlers were observed following the routes of multiple cables, including the Atlantic Crossing 1, Hibernia Express, Shefa-2, Amitie, and Grace Hopper cables. These ships often reduced speed to between two and three knots, a pace suitable for deploying uncrewed surface vehicles (USVs) or remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) equipped with sonar for detailed mapping.

Strategic Importance of Undersea Cables

Undersea cables form the backbone of the modern internet and global economy, facilitating trillions of dollars in economic activity. They are considered critical infrastructure and potential targets in geopolitical conflicts. NATO representatives have acknowledged awareness of these Russian civilian ship activities, noting that some vessels show no signs of actual fishing operations.

Gray-Zone Warfare

These suspected mapping activities are considered part of Russia's 'gray-zone' warfare tactics, which involve actions that fall below the threshold of conventional armed conflict. The use of commercial vessels for intelligence gathering allows for deniability while potentially preparing for future contingencies.